Nestled in the southern part of Beijing, Taoranting Park is more than just a green space. It is a journey through time and culture. Are you ready to explore its hidden stories?
Taoranting Park is a major city park in the Xicheng District. It is located north of the Beijing South railway station. This park was once a gathering place for literati. During the Qing Dynasty, most of Beijing’s gardens were reserved for imperial families. Taoranting Park gained its name from a poem by Tang Dynasty poet Bai Juyi. He wrote “Wait till the chrysanthemums are yellow and home-made wine is ripe, I’ll drink with you and be carefree.”
The park spans 59 acres. The water area covers 17 acres. Taoranting Park was built in 1952. Within its borders are Cibei An and the Taoran Pavilion. The park is also the final resting place of Gao Junyu and Shi Pingmei. They were tragic lovers. Their story has been told in books and films. Young couples often visit their graves as a pilgrimage site.
The history of Taoranting Park dates back to the Qing Dynasty. The Taoran Pavilion was built in 1695. Jiang Zao oversaw the construction. He was the chief engineer supervising the kiln workshop. There is also an old temple within the park. It was built during the Yuan Dynasty from 1276 to 1368.
Imagine strolling along the lake in Taoranting Park. Pavilions dot the banks. Residents and visitors alike enjoy walking and boating here. During the Jin Dynasty, Taoranting Park was in the capital’s suburbs. On the southwestern side of the Central Island was a small hillock. It held the ruins of the Temple of Mercy from the Liao Dynasty. Today, you can still find Liao and Jin dynasty stone pillars. They are inscribed with Buddhist scriptures.
Historically, scholars from across China wrote poems and essays about Taoranting. Though in imperial times the scenery was not particularly attractive.
Let’s jump to the past century. Taoranting Pavilion became associated with revolutionaries. Kang Youwei, Liang Qichao, and Tan Sitong planned the Reform Movement of 1898 here. Zhang Taiyan was imprisoned nearby for opposing Yuan Shikai. Sun Yat-sen attended political meetings in the pavilion. Li Dazhao organized secret revolutionary activities here as well. In 1920, Zhou Enlai and Li Dazhao attended a joint meeting of progressive societies here.
Before 1949, Taoranting was neglected. It was a breeding ground for flies and mosquitoes. Criminals roamed here after dark. In 1952, the government transformed the stagnant pond into a lake. The dredged earth formed seven small hills around the lake.
Today, Taoranting Park stands as a testament to Beijing’s rich history. It is a place of beauty and tranquility. It is a place where you can reflect on the past and enjoy the present. As you leave Taoranting Park remember the words of Bai Juyi. Embrace joy and find contentment in simple pleasures.